Temple of Mithras, London

The Temple of Mithras is an important Roman ruin discovered on Walbrook Street in London during rebuilding work following World War II.

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History of the Temple of Mithras

The Persian god Mithras was particularly popular with Roman soldiers and troops garrisoned on the British frontier. They built this temple to Mithras in 240-50 AD.

The archaeological site was excavated by W. F. Grimes and the artifacts recovered were put on display in the Museum of London.

What to See at the Temple of Mithras

The Museum of London still has an exhibit on the Temple of Mithras. There you can read about the temple and the marble sculptures discovered buried underneath.

Due to the necessity of building over the site, the ruins were uprooted and moved down the road to Queen Victoria Street, where the temple remains are on display to the public.

Temples to Mithras (Mithraea) were typically built partly or totally underground, as they were intended to symbolise the cave where Mithras killed the primordial bull and released powers of life and creativity to the world.

The temple foundations that remain reveal the Roman influence on the design of churches: like later Christian buildings, the Temple of Mithras features a central nave, side aisles and a rounded apse.

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

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Map of the Temple of Mithras, London

Below is a location map and aerial view of the Temple of Mithras. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.